Women in a Society that Worships Capital: Can UBI Save Them?

Author: Sophia Cheung

Field of Study: Undeclared

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Will Glovinsky

Easel: 85

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: This paper examines whether a universal basic income (UBI) would advance feminist goals by addressing structural economic inequalities. Drawing on feminist economic theory, policy analysis, and case studies from South Korea and India, the research evaluates UBI’s potential to reduce gendered financial dependence, support unpaid care work, and improve labor market outcomes for women. One argument, originating from the Wages for Housework movement, is that UBI could empower individuals by providing financial autonomy, particularly benefiting women who disproportionately engage in informal labor. However, critics like Angela Davis suggest that UBI may reinforce traditional gender roles by enabling women to remain outside the paid workforce. Through analysis of sources on feminist and class theory and case studies, the paper concludes that while UBI is not a comprehensive solution, it has the potential to significantly support feminist objectives when combined with complementary policies such as childcare support and workplace equity measures.